Phila Airport Parking Vacations

If you happen to find yourself in Malaysia in January, make sure to stick around for the amazing Hindu Festival, Thaipusam. People travel from all over the world to Kuala Lumpur to pay homage to the Lord Murugan. It is certainly an event that is not to be missed.

Thaipusam takes place at the Batu Caves. An ancient and sacred setting that is the perfect location for such an event. Millions of people take part in the festivities. Some simply watch or help a loved one with their ordeal, while others go to extremes. Devotees range from carrying pots of milk on their heads to the caves, while others drive spikes through their cheeks or insert hooks into their backs. They pull chariots or carry heavy cages as the walk the long walk to their destination.

There are different reasons as to why people choose attend Thaipusam. Some are seeking help with an answer to their prayers, others are looking to make amends for a past sin while others are giving thanks. It is not an easy task to prepare for their ordeal, they must fast, meditate and become mentally prepared to take on the pain and suffering. And what suffering they face.

The festival starts at midnight in downtown Kuala Lumpur. The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is located near China Town and that is where the thousands of worshippers and onlookers gather to begin the festivities. It is another 15 km of walking behind the Silver Chariot before they will reach the Batu Caves.

It is a spectacular sight. A neon lit midway and Ferris wheel are set up at the base of the high cliffs. Vendors line the path of the procession as thousands of people make their way to the steps of the Batu Cave. The modern lights are a strange contrast to the ancient ceremony. Drums beat as people chant Vel Vel in the never ending chain of bodies.

All day and all night the celebrations continue for three days. It is a different experience to see in the sunlight. Most people seem oblivious to the heat and pain, but some succumb to the weight of their Kevadi’s or feel the pain of their spikes.

Their journey ends at the top of 272 steps inside the giant chamber of the Batu Caves. It is calm and relaxed inside as people recover in the cool air. Monkeys play as people leave their offerings for the Lord. Once they have finished the hooks and spikes are removed by high priests and unbelievably, very few bleed.

In a roped off area, each person awakes from their trance. Some people faint, some people wail and scream, while others remain silent and still. Their ordeal is over and burdens are lifted. The cave is now quiet and calm, a contrast to the enormous energy and excitement of outside. It seems odd to watch people talking casually and laughing with each other after witnessing such a shocking event.

The festival has come to an end and the only thing left is the long procession back to Kuala Lumpur where the Silver Chariot will return to it’s home until next years ceremony. People will resume their lives as bankers or students, fathers and sisters feeling cleansed of their sins, released of their burdens and grateful for the opportunity to thank their Lord for a wish that he has granted.

Deb Corbeil and Dave Bouskill are an adventure travel couple from Canada. They have explored over 30 countries on 5 continents. Each new adventure takes them to remote corners of the earth where they paddle hike and trek their way around the globe. Visit their website http://tinyurl.com/qwl97h for great tips, advice and information on travel and adventure locations. To see their photo gallery check out picturetheplanet.com